HKSAR Government refutes unfounded statement regarding investigation of incidents concerning construction quality of Shatin to Central Link

     In an electronic media interview today (June 28), a certain individual delivered unfounded remarks regarding the incidents concerning the construction quality of the Shatin to Central Link (SCL) project, charging that "the Government is less willing to implicate MTR Corporation Limited (MTRCL) to the turbulence in legal proceedings". In response, a Government spokesman solemnly pointed out that the statement was fabricated and irresponsible.
 
     "The law enforcement department must handle every case in a fair, just and impartial manner. Prosecutorial decisions are based on an objective assessment of all admissible evidence and applicable laws, and made strictly in accordance with the Prosecution Code of the Department of Justice. The Police continues to conduct criminal investigations into the incidents concerning the construction quality of the SCL project. According to the established policy, we will not offer any comment on the case at this stage. We reiterate that no one should make groundless conclusion or make untrue, unfair and irresponsible remarks," the Government spokesman said.
 
     As for the remarks hinting that the Government might not further follow up with the incidents concerning the construction quality of the SCL project, the spokesman stressed that they are completely unfounded with malicious intent. The Government must rebuke the remarks and set the record straight. Any act attempting to smear the Government by fabrication will be doomed to fail. 
 
     The Government has been highly concerned with the incidents concerning the construction quality of the SCL project. Multifaceted follow-up actions were launched, including the establishment of the Commission of Inquiry into the Construction Works at and near the Hung Hom Station Extension under the Shatin to Central Link Project, and the Expert Adviser Team. In this regard, respective final reports have already been released upon completion of the investigation, review and audit. The Government concurs with the recommendations proposed by the Commission and the Expert Adviser Team, and has instructed MTRCL to fully follow up and implement. These recommendations, apart from being implemented in the SCL project, are also applicable to future new railway projects.